§ 19. Mr. BRACKENasked the Secretary of State for India if he will give a list of contracts exceeding £5,000 placed through 12 the High Commissioner for India with foreign firms?
§ Sir S. HOAREThe compilation of such a list, covering the period since the appointment of a High Commissioner for India in 1020, would entail more work than I should be justified in asking the High Commissioner to undertake. I will, however, ask him to consider the compilation of a list covering the past three years, if the hon. Member wishes.
§ Mr. BRACKENI am obliged to the right hon. Gentleman for his answer, but this is an important subject, and he has only to go through his books for 10 years. Is it not important for the House to know what contracts has been placed with foreign firms?
§ Sir S. HOAREThis is not a case of going through a limited number of particulars in the India Office. It is a very complicated question under the High Commissioner, and I do not feel justified in asking him to undertake so heavy a burden of work.